Archive for 2017

Table mats are an everyday and practical item, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use your own creativity to make your own.

We’ve put together this simple guide below that will hopefully inspire you to create your own. You may even find you’d like to add your finishing touches to your placemats such as contrasting stitching.

Follow the simple steps in this video to create your very own place mats...

With spring in full swing, there's no better time to turn your mind to your home and garden, and with the RHS Chelsea Flower Show blooming once again onto our calendar, there's plenty of inspiration to be found. Floral fabrics are a great way to put that touch of spring into your home, from just a flourish of cheerful accessories, or a complete rejuvenation. So, no matter your favourite flower, we've come up with a few examples of how to help your home flourish.

Roses

The romance of roses is known worldwide, but don't reserve them just for Valentines Day. Considered to be the most popular flower in Britain and worldwide, their iconic appearance and range of colours suit every home. Rose patterned fabrics can range from bold and beautiful to simple and stylish, and help your home feel reinvigorated.

Tulips

The Netherlands alone sell over 3 billion tulip bulbs a year, making them a firm favourite across the world. With over 150 species and 3000 varieties of tulips, they come in all sizes, shapes and shades, and can help to bring a burst of colour to your home. Even the most neutral fabric can take on a whole new lease of life when patterned with a bold tulip design, creating a fun and yet traditional appearance.

Poppies

Symbolic throughout the world, the poppy is known for it striking scarlet colour. Just a small touch of this vibrant shade can completely change a room’s appearance, which is exactly what is sometimes needed after the grey winter months. Some bold curtains may just be a simple solution, but the change you'll see will have your home blossoming with new found energy!

Lilies

Just like roses, the different colours and species of lilies take on different symbolic meanings, such as the flirtatious day-lilies. Some ideologies even believe that lilies bring good fortune, so bring a little luck into your home with some lily embellished decor. Lilies have a defined appearance, so can suit a more muted shade whilst retaining their floral vigour, so can be a wonderful choice if you don't fancy the bold and bright!

Wildflowers

Wildflowers bring all colours and designs together in an entirely unique way, and though they may be busy, they're also beautiful. For a completely contrast, or just a lively look all round, a William Morris fabric can suit your home perfectly. The design feels completely fresh, but retains a traditional and elegant feel, helping to add colour and reflect the spirited feel of rural England in the comfort of your home.

With so many ways to bring your favourite flowers from the garden and through your front door, your home can have that new lease of life and feel truly serene. If you're attending the RHS Chelsea flower show, enjoy, and we hope you all have a relaxing bank holiday weekend.

Bunting is a great addition to any party or summer event, whether that be a baby shower, wedding or even a BBQ. One of the great things about bunting is it can be easily personalised depending on the event - use it to spell out a message or just showcase your creativity with different fabrics.

Follow the simple steps in this video to create your very own bunting...

What you’ll need

Triangular template made from card or paper

Fabric (we’ve used a lightweight modern floral design)

Pinking shears

Scissors

Binding tape

Pen/chalk/pencil

Step By Step

Firstly cut out your triangular shape template from a piece of card/paper.

Use this template to draw out your triangles onto the fabric

Using pinking shears cut out the triangle sides. You can also cut these out using normal scissors and then go over the edges using pinking shears if you find this easier.

Next lay your first triangle on the binding tape, leaving a enough tape so you can tie the ends once complete. If you prefer you can pin in place.

Once you have your triangle in place, use a straight stich along the top.

Leave a 4 inch gap and repeat with the next triangle.

Keep doing this until you have stitched all triangles in place.

Cut off any excess tape (again leaving room to tie) and trim any loose threads.

Your bunting should now be ready to hang and enjoy! Let us know if you decide to make this in the comment section below!